mineral

Milky Quartz (Vein Quartz)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque white to cream with brownish iron staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Opaque white to cream with brownish iron staining
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich hydrothermal solutions that precipitate in rock fractures and veins. It can occur across all geological ages, often found near hydrothermal vents or associated with gold-bearing veins.

Uses & applications

Used in the production of glass, ceramics, and abrasives. In construction, it is used as decorative aggregate. While common, clean specimens are used in lapidary work or for landscaping.

Geological facts

Milky quartz gets its white color from millions of tiny fluid inclusions of gas and liquid trapped during the crystal's growth. It is the most common variety of crystalline quartz on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass easily), lack of cleavage, and white opaque appearance. It is found globally, often weathering out of host rocks to form large chunks in soil or stream beds.